The movie becomes the first film to top the box office for five straight weeks since Avatar in 2009. Black Panther is also less than $18 million shy of passing The Avengers as the highest grossing superhero movie of all time.

In second place with an estimated $23.5 million weekend was the new reboot of Tomb Raider. The film, starring Alicia Vikander in the the Lara Croft role originated by Angelina Jolie in 2001, failed to match the original's $47.7 opening weekend.

I Can Only Imagine, starring newcomer J. Michael Finley, along with Dennis Quaid and Cloris Leachman, pulled of a surprising third place finish, delivering an estimated $17 million, followed by Disney's A Wrinkle in Time, pulling up in fourth place with an estimated $16.56 million

Rounding out the top five was Love, Simon, led by Nick Robinson, Josh Duhamel and Jennifer Garner, earning an estimated $11.5 million.

Disney is the parent company of Marvel and ABC.

Here are the top 10 movies from Friday through Sunday, with estimated weekend gross ticket sales:

]]>Marvel Studios(Hollywood) -- Marvel Studio's Black Panther fought off a challenge from Tomb Raider, topping the box office again with an estimated $27 million haul over the weekend.

The movie becomes the first film to top the box office for five straight weeks since Avatar in 2009. Black Panther is also less than $18 million shy of passing The Avengers as the highest grossing superhero movie of all time.

In second place with an estimated $23.5 million weekend was the new reboot of Tomb Raider. The film, starring Alicia Vikander in the the Lara Croft role originated by Angelina Jolie in 2001, failed to match the original's $47.7 opening weekend.

I Can Only Imagine, starring newcomer J. Michael Finley, along with Dennis Quaid and Cloris Leachman, pulled of a surprising third place finish, delivering an estimated $17 million, followed by Disney's A Wrinkle in Time, pulling up in fourth place with an estimated $16.56 million

Rounding out the top five was Love, Simon, led by Nick Robinson, Josh Duhamel and Jennifer Garner, earning an estimated $11.5 million.

Disney is the parent company of Marvel and ABC.

Here are the top 10 movies from Friday through Sunday, with estimated weekend gross ticket sales:

The night also featured a moment in which Katy had to address one contestant's love for her reported rival, Taylor Swift. More on that later.

There were a number of "yeses," but here's a look at just some of the standouts:

Savannah, Georgia

Crystal Alicea is a 20-year-old with flaming red hair, whose only previous performing experience has been singing karaoke around her hometown of Winter Haven, Florida. She used to get bullied about her weight and resorted to “self-harming” to deal with her anger. She’s since conquered her weight and insecurities, thanks in part to her boyfriend of seven years. Her performance of Sam Smith’s "Lay Me Down" impressed all three judges, including Katy, who declared Alicea had “an ‘it’ factor,” adding, "I think you're a little star...I would totally follow you on Instagram.” Crystal got three "yeses" and a ticket to Hollywood.

Hickory, North Carolina, native Johnny White's mother struggled with drug addiction, and his dad spent nine years in prison. After shuttling between homeless shelters and foster homes, Johnny was finally adopted, but never felt like he belonged. Music became his therapy, and, with the help of his vocal coach, found the confidence to make it to the Idol auditions. His no-holds-barred cover of James Brown’s “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” impressed Lionel, who also urged him to tone things down a bit. “You’ve got to make love to us, but you’ve got to have a little foreplay before you do it.” Katy called White “top 10 material.” He got three “yeses” and a trip to Hollywood.

New York

Jonny Brenns, from St. Augustine, Florida, says his parents preferred education over music, but his urge to sing was just too strong. In fact, the six-foot, five-inch 18-year-old kept his Idol audition a secret from them. Jonny’s original tune, called “Blue Jeans,” had the judges mixed. Katy was a “yes,” explaining Brenns was “good looking,” and had a “sweet little sexy thing going on.” Luke was on the fence, until Jonny sang a little of Michael Bublé’s “Home” and added a second “yes.” Richie felt the singer was still a little green and voted “no.” Brenns got to call his parents and tell them he’s going to Hollywood, and have Lionel sing a little bit of his hit “Hello” to her over the phone.

Los Angeles

Effie Passero, an assistant property manager living in Modesto, California, and a former opera singer backed herself on the piano as she sang her original song, "Troubled Mind." Effie's powerful voice brought the judges to their feet, with Lionel declaring they now had a “secret weapon in our arsenal.” Luke added that Passero -- who sported a punk haircut and numerous tattoos -- had the “whole thing going on.” Katy agreed, adding the singer had a voice they’d been demanding from all the contestants. All three judges shouted in unison, “You’re going to Hollywood.”

Amelia Hammer Harris, 26, comes from rock & roll royalty: her father, Jack Hammer, wrote such classics as Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Great Balls of Fire” and “Yakety Yak” for The Coasters, though she never actually met him until she was 16. Their relationship was strained, until he started suffering from dementia, at the age of 90, when they became “friends” while she cared for him until his death. Amelia’s soulful take on The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter” earned her a trip to Hollywood, though Richie warned that she needed to “find a couple of avenues you didn’t know you had” in order to go deep into the competition.

Maddie Zahm, a 19-yearold from Boise, Idaho, says music was always her passion, but a hormone imbalance caused her to gain 100 pounds and took away her confidence. Maddie, who now teaches music to kids with disabilities, was accompanied on her audition by one of them, a boy with Down Syndrome named Marcus. Maddie says his ability to come out of his shell inspired her to do the same. Marcus sat with judges as she performed “New Rules” by Dua Lipa. Then, in a touching moment, he joined her on Katy’s hit “Firework.” Perry noted Zahm had an “incredible set of pipes” and is “a good woman.” Luke said Maddie seemed “a little timid,” at times, before adding, “You got it.” She earned a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.

A montage of artists who didn't make the cut provided one of the more awkward moments on Sunday, when Bryan asked a hopeful who had influenced him as an artist. "I'm sorry for this Katy -- Taylor Swift -- I love her," he answered, referring to Perry and Swift's alleged feud. "You don't have to worry," Katy replied. "I love her as a songwriter, as well."

]]>ABC/Eddy Chen(Hollywood) -- ABC's American Idol continued on Sunday night with two more hours of auditions, and judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie traveling to New York, Los Angeles and Savannah, Georgia, in search of artists worthy of a coveted Golden Ticket to Hollywood.

The night also featured a moment in which Katy had to address one contestant's love for her reported rival, Taylor Swift. More on that later.

There were a number of "yeses," but here's a look at just some of the standouts:

Savannah, Georgia

Crystal Alicea is a 20-year-old with flaming red hair, whose only previous performing experience has been singing karaoke around her hometown of Winter Haven, Florida. She used to get bullied about her weight and resorted to “self-harming” to deal with her anger. She’s since conquered her weight and insecurities, thanks in part to her boyfriend of seven years. Her performance of Sam Smith’s "Lay Me Down" impressed all three judges, including Katy, who declared Alicea had “an ‘it’ factor,” adding, "I think you're a little star...I would totally follow you on Instagram.” Crystal got three "yeses" and a ticket to Hollywood.

Hickory, North Carolina, native Johnny White's mother struggled with drug addiction, and his dad spent nine years in prison. After shuttling between homeless shelters and foster homes, Johnny was finally adopted, but never felt like he belonged. Music became his therapy, and, with the help of his vocal coach, found the confidence to make it to the Idol auditions. His no-holds-barred cover of James Brown’s “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” impressed Lionel, who also urged him to tone things down a bit. “You’ve got to make love to us, but you’ve got to have a little foreplay before you do it.” Katy called White “top 10 material.” He got three “yeses” and a trip to Hollywood.

New York

Jonny Brenns, from St. Augustine, Florida, says his parents preferred education over music, but his urge to sing was just too strong. In fact, the six-foot, five-inch 18-year-old kept his Idol audition a secret from them. Jonny’s original tune, called “Blue Jeans,” had the judges mixed. Katy was a “yes,” explaining Brenns was “good looking,” and had a “sweet little sexy thing going on.” Luke was on the fence, until Jonny sang a little of Michael Bublé’s “Home” and added a second “yes.” Richie felt the singer was still a little green and voted “no.” Brenns got to call his parents and tell them he’s going to Hollywood, and have Lionel sing a little bit of his hit “Hello” to her over the phone.

Los Angeles

Effie Passero, an assistant property manager living in Modesto, California, and a former opera singer backed herself on the piano as she sang her original song, "Troubled Mind." Effie's powerful voice brought the judges to their feet, with Lionel declaring they now had a “secret weapon in our arsenal.” Luke added that Passero -- who sported a punk haircut and numerous tattoos -- had the “whole thing going on.” Katy agreed, adding the singer had a voice they’d been demanding from all the contestants. All three judges shouted in unison, “You’re going to Hollywood.”

Amelia Hammer Harris, 26, comes from rock & roll royalty: her father, Jack Hammer, wrote such classics as Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Great Balls of Fire” and “Yakety Yak” for The Coasters, though she never actually met him until she was 16. Their relationship was strained, until he started suffering from dementia, at the age of 90, when they became “friends” while she cared for him until his death. Amelia’s soulful take on The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter” earned her a trip to Hollywood, though Richie warned that she needed to “find a couple of avenues you didn’t know you had” in order to go deep into the competition.

Maddie Zahm, a 19-yearold from Boise, Idaho, says music was always her passion, but a hormone imbalance caused her to gain 100 pounds and took away her confidence. Maddie, who now teaches music to kids with disabilities, was accompanied on her audition by one of them, a boy with Down Syndrome named Marcus. Maddie says his ability to come out of his shell inspired her to do the same. Marcus sat with judges as she performed “New Rules” by Dua Lipa. Then, in a touching moment, he joined her on Katy’s hit “Firework.” Perry noted Zahm had an “incredible set of pipes” and is “a good woman.” Luke said Maddie seemed “a little timid,” at times, before adding, “You got it.” She earned a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.

A montage of artists who didn't make the cut provided one of the more awkward moments on Sunday, when Bryan asked a hopeful who had influenced him as an artist. "I'm sorry for this Katy -- Taylor Swift -- I love her," he answered, referring to Perry and Swift's alleged feud. "You don't have to worry," Katy replied. "I love her as a songwriter, as well."

ABC/Jeff Schwartz(LONDON)-- John Boyega is joining the growing list of Hollywood actors adopting inclusion riders as part of their future film projects.

In an interview with BBC Radio's Newsbeat, Boyega says he will adopt the practice which ensures diversity in hiring both behind and in front of the camera.

"We are redefining and reshaping the industry at the moment," Boyega said. "A lot of the secret rules of Hollywood are unfounded and unlawful so to start including them [inclusion riders] makes our industry better."

The actor, who acquired his first production credit on his upcoming film Pacific Rim Uprising, also says inclusion riders will help to bring much needed accountability to the film industry.

"Those who wish to defy [using inclusion riders], they're held accountable," he says. "So for me, I love that it's happening."

Boyega's announcement comes after several stars, including Michael B. Jordan, Matt Damonand Ben Affleck, have also pledged to use inclusion riders on their future productions.

Jordan, however, was the first to officially speak out after Frances McDormand's passionate Oscars acceptance speech where she referenced the riders.

"In support of the women & men who are leading this fight, I will be adopting the Inclusion Rider for all projects produced by my company Outlier Society," Jordan wrote on Instagram. "I’ve been privileged to work with powerful woman & persons of color throughout my career & it’s Outlier’s mission to continue to create for talented individuals going forward."

ABC/Jeff Schwartz(LONDON)-- John Boyega is joining the growing list of Hollywood actors adopting inclusion riders as part of their future film projects.

In an interview with BBC Radio's Newsbeat, Boyega says he will adopt the practice which ensures diversity in hiring both behind and in front of the camera.

"We are redefining and reshaping the industry at the moment," Boyega said. "A lot of the secret rules of Hollywood are unfounded and unlawful so to start including them [inclusion riders] makes our industry better."

The actor, who acquired his first production credit on his upcoming film Pacific Rim Uprising, also says inclusion riders will help to bring much needed accountability to the film industry.

"Those who wish to defy [using inclusion riders], they're held accountable," he says. "So for me, I love that it's happening."

Boyega's announcement comes after several stars, including Michael B. Jordan, Matt Damonand Ben Affleck, have also pledged to use inclusion riders on their future productions.

Jordan, however, was the first to officially speak out after Frances McDormand's passionate Oscars acceptance speech where she referenced the riders.

"In support of the women & men who are leading this fight, I will be adopting the Inclusion Rider for all projects produced by my company Outlier Society," Jordan wrote on Instagram. "I’ve been privileged to work with powerful woman & persons of color throughout my career & it’s Outlier’s mission to continue to create for talented individuals going forward."

]]>Pussy Galore no more? New Bond film's director says movie will take Time's Up into accounthttp://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/81f153df7c5ac330c7900b258981d21f
Fri, 16 Mar 2018 16:00:00 -0500http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/81f153df7c5ac330c7900b258981d21fLarry Ellis/Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- Now that Oscar-winner Danny Boyle has confirmed that he's going to direct the new James Bond movie, he may also be shaking up -- not stirring -- the traditional portrayal of the "Bond Girl."

While "Bond Girls" have gotten more powerful over the years, there hasn't been one who's been depicted as Bond's true equal -- and Bond himself has often been called a male chauvinist pig. But now, in this era of #MeToo and Time's Up, will Boyle's depiction of the women in Bond 25, as the film is currently known, be changing too?

Asked that question by Page Six, Boyle said, "You write in real time. You acknowledge the legacy of the world [of Bond] and you write in the world — but you also write in the modern world as well.”

When pressed for specifics of any of the female characters, Boyle said, "I can’t tell you yet, [I] will report back later.”

While Bond's onscreen boss, M, has been a woman for a number of movies, that character, played by Judi Dench, was killed off in Skyfall.

Boyle, who directed Slumdog Millionaire and Trainspotting, previously said that he was aiming to start shooting the new movie, reportedly the last to feature Daniel Craig as Bond, at the end of this year.

Now that Oscar-winner Danny Boyle has confirmed that he's going to direct the new James Bond movie, he may also be shaking up -- not stirring -- the traditional portrayal of the "Bond Girl."

While "Bond Girls" have gotten more powerful over the years, there hasn't been one who's been depicted as Bond's true equal -- and Bond himself has often been called a male chauvinist pig. But now, in this era of #MeToo and Time's Up, will Boyle's depiction of the women in Bond 25, as the film is currently known, be changing too?

Asked that question by Page Six, Boyle said, "You write in real time. You acknowledge the legacy of the world [of Bond] and you write in the world — but you also write in the modern world as well.”

When pressed for specifics of any of the female characters, Boyle said, "I can’t tell you yet, [I] will report back later.”

While Bond's onscreen boss, M, has been a woman for a number of movies, that character, played by Judi Dench, was killed off in Skyfall.

Boyle, who directed Slumdog Millionaire and Trainspotting, previously said that he was aiming to start shooting the new movie, reportedly the last to feature Daniel Craig as Bond, at the end of this year.

]]>Larry Ellis/Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- Now that Oscar-winner Danny Boyle has confirmed that he's going to direct the new James Bond movie, he may also be shaking up -- not stirring -- the traditional portrayal of the "Bond Girl."

While "Bond Girls" have gotten more powerful over the years, there hasn't been one who's been depicted as Bond's true equal -- and Bond himself has often been called a male chauvinist pig. But now, in this era of #MeToo and Time's Up, will Boyle's depiction of the women in Bond 25, as the film is currently known, be changing too?

Asked that question by Page Six, Boyle said, "You write in real time. You acknowledge the legacy of the world [of Bond] and you write in the world — but you also write in the modern world as well.”

When pressed for specifics of any of the female characters, Boyle said, "I can’t tell you yet, [I] will report back later.”

While Bond's onscreen boss, M, has been a woman for a number of movies, that character, played by Judi Dench, was killed off in Skyfall.

Boyle, who directed Slumdog Millionaire and Trainspotting, previously said that he was aiming to start shooting the new movie, reportedly the last to feature Daniel Craig as Bond, at the end of this year.

Now that Oscar-winner Danny Boyle has confirmed that he's going to direct the new James Bond movie, he may also be shaking up -- not stirring -- the traditional portrayal of the "Bond Girl."

While "Bond Girls" have gotten more powerful over the years, there hasn't been one who's been depicted as Bond's true equal -- and Bond himself has often been called a male chauvinist pig. But now, in this era of #MeToo and Time's Up, will Boyle's depiction of the women in Bond 25, as the film is currently known, be changing too?

Asked that question by Page Six, Boyle said, "You write in real time. You acknowledge the legacy of the world [of Bond] and you write in the world — but you also write in the modern world as well.”

When pressed for specifics of any of the female characters, Boyle said, "I can’t tell you yet, [I] will report back later.”

While Bond's onscreen boss, M, has been a woman for a number of movies, that character, played by Judi Dench, was killed off in Skyfall.

Boyle, who directed Slumdog Millionaire and Trainspotting, previously said that he was aiming to start shooting the new movie, reportedly the last to feature Daniel Craig as Bond, at the end of this year.

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images(HOLLYWOOD) -- If change has to come from the top, then Hollywood may be in trouble.

Variety reports that John Bailey, the 75-year-old president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has been accused of sexual harassment and the Academy is now investigating three different claims against him.

Last October, the Academy expelled Harvey Weinstein for alleged sexual misconduct and in December, it established new rules stating that members can be ejected for harassment, abuse or discrimination. Earlier this month, the Academy, which hands out the Oscars, replaced Casey Affleck as a presenter on the awards telecast because he settled two sexual harassment lawsuits in 2010.

In a statement to ABC, the Academy said, "[We] treat any complaints confidentially to protect all parties. The Membership Committee reviews all complaints brought against Academy members according to our Standards of Conduct process, and after completing reviews, reports to the Board of Governors. We will not comment further on such matters until the full review is completed."

Bailey is a former cinematographer who worked on movies like The Big Chill and Groundhog Day. He was elected president this past August. Variety reports that when he succeeded outgoing president Cheryl Boone Isaacs, there were concerns that as a 75-year-old white man, Bailey wasn't the best choice to lead the Academy at a time when it was trying to diversify its membership.

When asked about that by Variety last year, he said, "What you just said is bulls***. I was born a white man, and I can’t help it that I’m 75 years old. Is this some sort of limiting factor?”

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images(HOLLYWOOD) -- If change has to come from the top, then Hollywood may be in trouble.

Variety reports that John Bailey, the 75-year-old president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has been accused of sexual harassment and the Academy is now investigating three different claims against him.

Last October, the Academy expelled Harvey Weinstein for alleged sexual misconduct and in December, it established new rules stating that members can be ejected for harassment, abuse or discrimination. Earlier this month, the Academy, which hands out the Oscars, replaced Casey Affleck as a presenter on the awards telecast because he settled two sexual harassment lawsuits in 2010.

In a statement to ABC, the Academy said, "[We] treat any complaints confidentially to protect all parties. The Membership Committee reviews all complaints brought against Academy members according to our Standards of Conduct process, and after completing reviews, reports to the Board of Governors. We will not comment further on such matters until the full review is completed."

Bailey is a former cinematographer who worked on movies like The Big Chill and Groundhog Day. He was elected president this past August. Variety reports that when he succeeded outgoing president Cheryl Boone Isaacs, there were concerns that as a 75-year-old white man, Bailey wasn't the best choice to lead the Academy at a time when it was trying to diversify its membership.

When asked about that by Variety last year, he said, "What you just said is bulls***. I was born a white man, and I can’t help it that I’m 75 years old. Is this some sort of limiting factor?”

]]>Jennifer Garner said she regrets becoming viral Oscars meme: "It's too embarrassing"http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/b6da189a81a6b5563c2529e3fc920273
Fri, 16 Mar 2018 14:00:00 -0500http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/b6da189a81a6b5563c2529e3fc920273ABC/Rick Rowell(LOS ANGELES) -- Jennifer Garner became one of the most memorable parts of the Oscars this year after she became a viral meme. OnThe Ellen DeGeneres show Friday, the actress said she completely regrets the moment.

During the 90th annual Academy Awards, the former Alias star was caught on camera clapping then suddenly stopping.

]]>ABC/Rick Rowell(LOS ANGELES) -- Jennifer Garner became one of the most memorable parts of the Oscars this year after she became a viral meme. OnThe Ellen DeGeneres show Friday, the actress said she completely regrets the moment.

During the 90th annual Academy Awards, the former Alias star was caught on camera clapping then suddenly stopping.

ABC/Paula Lobo(HOLLYWOOD) -- After scoring box office success with Disney's A Wrinkle in Time, Ava DuVernay has landed a job directing yet another big-budget fantasy epic.

Variety reports that DuVernay will direct New Gods, based on the DC Comics series of the same name, for Warner Brothers. The series debuted in 1971, and was created byJack Kirby, who also co-created some of Marvel Comics' most iconic characters, such as The Hulk and The X-Men.

The New Gods are a race that hail from twin planets: one called New Genesis, which is a paradise, and a much grimmer one called Apokolips, which lives up to its name. The movie will be part of the DC Extended Universe, which also includes Man of Steel, Wonder Woman, Justice League, Suicide Squad and the upcoming Aquaman.

With A Wrinkle In Time, DuVernay became the first woman of color in Hollywood to direct a live-action film with a $100 million budget. So far, A Wrinkle In Time, which was released a week ago, has grossed over $42 million.

DuVernay also directed the Oscar-nominated civil rights movie Selma and the Oscar-nominated documentary 13th. She created and executive-produces the OWN Network series Queen Sugar.

ABC/Paula Lobo(HOLLYWOOD) -- After scoring box office success with Disney's A Wrinkle in Time, Ava DuVernay has landed a job directing yet another big-budget fantasy epic.

Variety reports that DuVernay will direct New Gods, based on the DC Comics series of the same name, for Warner Brothers. The series debuted in 1971, and was created byJack Kirby, who also co-created some of Marvel Comics' most iconic characters, such as The Hulk and The X-Men.

The New Gods are a race that hail from twin planets: one called New Genesis, which is a paradise, and a much grimmer one called Apokolips, which lives up to its name. The movie will be part of the DC Extended Universe, which also includes Man of Steel, Wonder Woman, Justice League, Suicide Squad and the upcoming Aquaman.

With A Wrinkle In Time, DuVernay became the first woman of color in Hollywood to direct a live-action film with a $100 million budget. So far, A Wrinkle In Time, which was released a week ago, has grossed over $42 million.

DuVernay also directed the Oscar-nominated civil rights movie Selma and the Oscar-nominated documentary 13th. She created and executive-produces the OWN Network series Queen Sugar.

* Tomb Raider -- The Danish Girl's Alicia Vikander takes on the role of Lara Croft, in this reboot of the 2001 film starring Angelina Jolie as the video game heroin. This time out, Croft embarks on a perilous journey to solve the mystery of her father's disappearance. Dominic West and Justified's Walton Goggins also star. Rated PG-13.

* I Can Only Imagine -- Newcomer J. Michael Finley stars in this drama based on the true untold story behind contemporary Christian band MercyMe's inspirational 2001 hit of the same name. Also starring Dennis Quaid and Cloris Leachman. Rated PG.

* 7 Days in Entebbe -- Daniel Brühl and Rosamund Pike star in this film based on true events of the 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight en route from Tel Aviv to Paris, and the daring rescue mission that followed. Rated PG-13.

* Tomb Raider -- The Danish Girl's Alicia Vikander takes on the role of Lara Croft, in this reboot of the 2001 film starring Angelina Jolie as the video game heroin. This time out, Croft embarks on a perilous journey to solve the mystery of her father's disappearance. Dominic West and Justified's Walton Goggins also star. Rated PG-13.

* I Can Only Imagine -- Newcomer J. Michael Finley stars in this drama based on the true untold story behind contemporary Christian band MercyMe's inspirational 2001 hit of the same name. Also starring Dennis Quaid and Cloris Leachman. Rated PG.

* 7 Days in Entebbe -- Daniel Brühl and Rosamund Pike star in this film based on true events of the 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight en route from Tel Aviv to Paris, and the daring rescue mission that followed. Rated PG-13.

Marvel Studios(HOLLYWOOD) In the new trailer for Marvel's Avengers: Infinity War, the world is in danger of being destroyed...but at least we can laugh about it. Amid scenes of carnage and fighting, there are still a few humorous moments.

Zoe Saldana's Gamora explains the plot. Referring to the big bad -- her adoptive father, Thanos -- we see her telling Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark, "The entire time I knew him, he only had one goal: to wipe out half the universe. If he gets all the Infinity Stones, he can do it with a snap of his fingers. Just like that."

From there, it's full-on Avengers Assemble! time, and it's worth watching the trailer just to see every one of your Marvel favorites together in action -- from T'Challa and his Wakanda warriors, to Peter Quill and his Guardians of the Galaxy, to Iron Man, Spider-Man, Dr. Strange, Thor, Captain America...the list goes on.

"Let's talk about this plan of yours," Chris Pratt's Quill says to Tony Stark. "I think it's good, except it sucks. So let me do the plan and that way, it might be really good."

We then get a good look at the massive alien baddie, Thanos, voiced by Josh Brolin. "The end is near," he thunders.

Then it's fight after battle after fight, culminating with Chris Evans' Captain America going mano a mano with Thanos. And in patented Marvel fashion, the trailer ends with a joke, as Tom Holland's Peter Parker meets Benedict Cumberbatch's Stephen Strange.

Marvel Studios(HOLLYWOOD) In the new trailer for Marvel's Avengers: Infinity War, the world is in danger of being destroyed...but at least we can laugh about it. Amid scenes of carnage and fighting, there are still a few humorous moments.

Zoe Saldana's Gamora explains the plot. Referring to the big bad -- her adoptive father, Thanos -- we see her telling Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark, "The entire time I knew him, he only had one goal: to wipe out half the universe. If he gets all the Infinity Stones, he can do it with a snap of his fingers. Just like that."

From there, it's full-on Avengers Assemble! time, and it's worth watching the trailer just to see every one of your Marvel favorites together in action -- from T'Challa and his Wakanda warriors, to Peter Quill and his Guardians of the Galaxy, to Iron Man, Spider-Man, Dr. Strange, Thor, Captain America...the list goes on.

"Let's talk about this plan of yours," Chris Pratt's Quill says to Tony Stark. "I think it's good, except it sucks. So let me do the plan and that way, it might be really good."

We then get a good look at the massive alien baddie, Thanos, voiced by Josh Brolin. "The end is near," he thunders.

Then it's fight after battle after fight, culminating with Chris Evans' Captain America going mano a mano with Thanos. And in patented Marvel fashion, the trailer ends with a joke, as Tom Holland's Peter Parker meets Benedict Cumberbatch's Stephen Strange.

]]>"Scandal" recap: "The List"http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/0953c4514f744048ca9c38ea3de106c9
Fri, 16 Mar 2018 08:00:00 -0500http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/0953c4514f744048ca9c38ea3de106c9ABC/Richard CartwrightOn Scandal's latest episode, "The List," an intern named Alisha goes missing after she buys a gun. While the reason of her purchase is unknown, her father enlists Olivia Pope to help find her. Liv, with the help of Marcus and Fitz, work together to try to figure out what happened to Alisha.

Earlier on, Liv tells Abby that Cyrus Beene was behind the hijack of Air Force Two and now wants to try to take the presidency from Mellie. Abby tells the gladiators and asks them to look into Cyrus.

Meanwhile, Jake visits Mellie, who is working on the annual budget. She explains to Jake that she needs him to reach out to Cyrus so he can help wrangle up some Democratic support. Jake seems reluctant, but agrees. He is still trying to figure out who really hijacked Air Force Two.

Later, Liv shows up at Alicia's dorm and finds her roommate. She learns that Alicia recently lost her job. In an effort to find out more information, Liv takes Alicia's computer. At her office, she learns that Alicia is part of a list, which reveals if interns are willing to put out or not. Liv also learns that Alicia had emailed her boss that she learned about the list and was not willing to have sex to get ahead.

Meanwhile, Mellie and Cyrus are once again working together to discuss the budget.

As Cyrus hits the media circuit to push Mellie's agenda, Abby watches him on TV and figures out Cyrus hired the hacker with an expensive painting he recently owned. Cyrus' inside man realizes he's being investigated and gets nervous and wants to get out of their agreement. Cyrus tells him not to worry.

Liv and Marcus later confront Alisha's old boss, who denies he did anything wrong. Liv soon discovers that Alisha bought the gun to kill herself. After the father learns his daughter is dead, he rips into Liv for sleeping her way to the top and not being the role model that his daughter believed her to be.

The confrontation prompts Liv to want justice for Alisha and every woman on the list. She asks Fitz for help and asks Alisha's roommate to out the congressmen who participated in making the list.

While Liv has Fitz helping her, Marcus meets with Mellie to have her work on sexual harassment reform. While Mellie says she wants to help, she says she can't because it will mess up her chances for fixing the budget. Marcus leaves upset. However, Mellie later decides to push through with the initiative, after she feels Jake is manipulating her to get ahead.

Meanwhile, the gladiators are having a difficult time proving that Cyrus is the behind the hijacking. When Abby keeps pushing for them to stay on the case, Quinn realizes that Abby is really working for Liv, which makes the gladiators immediately drop the case. Abby informs Liv about the gladiator’s decision.

However, Huck still has hope in Olivia and continues to investigate into the hijacking even with Charlie's objection.

Alicia's roommate later decides to help Liv and speaks out against the congressman who preyed on her and other woman. Her decision helps prompt other women to speak out.

Later, Abby visits Liv to let her know that she's on her side to help bring down Cyrus.

In the last few moments, Huck believes Charlie manufactured the virus for the highjack, but he's actually being set up by Cyrus, who watches Charlie being arrested by FBI agents. Charlie's case is to be prosecuted by Cyrus' inside man.

Upset, Quinn heads over to Liv's place and asks her for help in getting Charlie cleared.

]]>ABC/Richard CartwrightOn Scandal's latest episode, "The List," an intern named Alisha goes missing after she buys a gun. While the reason of her purchase is unknown, her father enlists Olivia Pope to help find her. Liv, with the help of Marcus and Fitz, work together to try to figure out what happened to Alisha.

Earlier on, Liv tells Abby that Cyrus Beene was behind the hijack of Air Force Two and now wants to try to take the presidency from Mellie. Abby tells the gladiators and asks them to look into Cyrus.

Meanwhile, Jake visits Mellie, who is working on the annual budget. She explains to Jake that she needs him to reach out to Cyrus so he can help wrangle up some Democratic support. Jake seems reluctant, but agrees. He is still trying to figure out who really hijacked Air Force Two.

Later, Liv shows up at Alicia's dorm and finds her roommate. She learns that Alicia recently lost her job. In an effort to find out more information, Liv takes Alicia's computer. At her office, she learns that Alicia is part of a list, which reveals if interns are willing to put out or not. Liv also learns that Alicia had emailed her boss that she learned about the list and was not willing to have sex to get ahead.

Meanwhile, Mellie and Cyrus are once again working together to discuss the budget.

As Cyrus hits the media circuit to push Mellie's agenda, Abby watches him on TV and figures out Cyrus hired the hacker with an expensive painting he recently owned. Cyrus' inside man realizes he's being investigated and gets nervous and wants to get out of their agreement. Cyrus tells him not to worry.

Liv and Marcus later confront Alisha's old boss, who denies he did anything wrong. Liv soon discovers that Alisha bought the gun to kill herself. After the father learns his daughter is dead, he rips into Liv for sleeping her way to the top and not being the role model that his daughter believed her to be.

The confrontation prompts Liv to want justice for Alisha and every woman on the list. She asks Fitz for help and asks Alisha's roommate to out the congressmen who participated in making the list.

While Liv has Fitz helping her, Marcus meets with Mellie to have her work on sexual harassment reform. While Mellie says she wants to help, she says she can't because it will mess up her chances for fixing the budget. Marcus leaves upset. However, Mellie later decides to push through with the initiative, after she feels Jake is manipulating her to get ahead.

Meanwhile, the gladiators are having a difficult time proving that Cyrus is the behind the hijacking. When Abby keeps pushing for them to stay on the case, Quinn realizes that Abby is really working for Liv, which makes the gladiators immediately drop the case. Abby informs Liv about the gladiator’s decision.

However, Huck still has hope in Olivia and continues to investigate into the hijacking even with Charlie's objection.

Alicia's roommate later decides to help Liv and speaks out against the congressman who preyed on her and other woman. Her decision helps prompt other women to speak out.

Later, Abby visits Liv to let her know that she's on her side to help bring down Cyrus.

In the last few moments, Huck believes Charlie manufactured the virus for the highjack, but he's actually being set up by Cyrus, who watches Charlie being arrested by FBI agents. Charlie's case is to be prosecuted by Cyrus' inside man.

Upset, Quinn heads over to Liv's place and asks her for help in getting Charlie cleared.

]]>Bill Cosby judge will allow 5 additional accusers to testify against the comedianhttp://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/345f40fe21454570f87ff319ef8f8ff8
Fri, 16 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0500http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/345f40fe21454570f87ff319ef8f8ff8Gilbert Carrasquillo/WireImage(PENNSYLVANIA) -- In a crucial pre-trial ruling that could help determine the fate of comedian Bill Cosby, a Pennsylvania judge ruled Thursday that he will allow five additional accusers to testify about allegedly being drugged and sexually assaulted by Cosby over the years.

Prosecutors had asked the judge to allow as many as 19 additional accusers -- of dozens they have interviewed -- to testify with stories strikingly similar to allegations made by the primary accuser in the case, Andrea Constand. She has alleged that Cosby, 80, drugged and sexually assaulted her while she was unconscious at his home in 2004.

Defense attorneys fought vigorously against the state’s motion, arguing that additional accusers don’t show a pattern of "prior bad acts," but rather a pattern of accusations. All of the more than 50 women who have been interviewed by prosecutors came forward after Constand first told her story to authorities in 2005. All of the women’s allegations -- except for Constand’s -- fall outside the statute of limitations and cannot be prosecuted. Cosby has denied all of their allegations.

In the first trial, prosecutors asked Judge Steven O'Neill to allow 13 additional accusers to testify, but he allowed just one.

Earlier this month, legal experts told ABC News that the decision on whether additional accusers were allowed to testify could have a significant impact on whether Cosby is convicted or acquitted of the three felony charges he is facing.

"I think the outcome virtually turns on that ruling," Yale Law School professor Steven B. Duke said of the case.

Cosby’s previous trial last summer ended in a hung jury and mistrial. His retrial is scheduled to begin on March 29, and opening arguments are slated for April 2.

]]>Gilbert Carrasquillo/WireImage(PENNSYLVANIA) -- In a crucial pre-trial ruling that could help determine the fate of comedian Bill Cosby, a Pennsylvania judge ruled Thursday that he will allow five additional accusers to testify about allegedly being drugged and sexually assaulted by Cosby over the years.

Prosecutors had asked the judge to allow as many as 19 additional accusers -- of dozens they have interviewed -- to testify with stories strikingly similar to allegations made by the primary accuser in the case, Andrea Constand. She has alleged that Cosby, 80, drugged and sexually assaulted her while she was unconscious at his home in 2004.

Defense attorneys fought vigorously against the state’s motion, arguing that additional accusers don’t show a pattern of "prior bad acts," but rather a pattern of accusations. All of the more than 50 women who have been interviewed by prosecutors came forward after Constand first told her story to authorities in 2005. All of the women’s allegations -- except for Constand’s -- fall outside the statute of limitations and cannot be prosecuted. Cosby has denied all of their allegations.

In the first trial, prosecutors asked Judge Steven O'Neill to allow 13 additional accusers to testify, but he allowed just one.

Earlier this month, legal experts told ABC News that the decision on whether additional accusers were allowed to testify could have a significant impact on whether Cosby is convicted or acquitted of the three felony charges he is facing.

"I think the outcome virtually turns on that ruling," Yale Law School professor Steven B. Duke said of the case.

Cosby’s previous trial last summer ended in a hung jury and mistrial. His retrial is scheduled to begin on March 29, and opening arguments are slated for April 2.

]]>"Game of Thrones" star says the show's "brilliant" finale can't possibly "please everyone"http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/045b4e8cae341122de8f4e224ca92df2
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 18:00:00 -0500http://ac1027.com/abc-news-entertainment/045b4e8cae341122de8f4e224ca92df2Vladimir Furdik/HBO(HOLLYWOOD) -- Following the news that the final season of Game of Thrones will reportedly have quite a number of deaths, one member of the cast now says that while the show's very last episode is "brilliant," he's not sure if it'll satisfy fans.

Iain Glen, who plays Ser Jorah Mormont on the HBO series, tells The Indian Express, "I am one of the few people who has read the script and I know the ending and what happens." Asked if he felt the finale will give fans closure, he says, "Yes, I hope. I can't tell."

"When I read it, I thought it was rather brilliant," he adds. "I am a bit of a fan of the series as well, and it satiated my expectation and hopes…But we will just have to see. You know, with something this big like Game of Thrones, you cannot please everyone."

As for the final season, due to premiere in 2019, Glen teases, "All I can say is that we will be doing what we have done before, and the writers have written great episodes. They have had a great strike rate up to now, and I am sure that will continue."

In the past season, Glen's character Ser Jorah, Daenerys' trusted advisor, was cured of the dreaded greyscale disease by Sam, and was reunited with Daenerys, who welcomed him with open arms. He then traveled beyond the Wall with Jon Snow to capture a wight, in order to prove their existence to Cersei.

]]>Vladimir Furdik/HBO(HOLLYWOOD) -- Following the news that the final season of Game of Thrones will reportedly have quite a number of deaths, one member of the cast now says that while the show's very last episode is "brilliant," he's not sure if it'll satisfy fans.

Iain Glen, who plays Ser Jorah Mormont on the HBO series, tells The Indian Express, "I am one of the few people who has read the script and I know the ending and what happens." Asked if he felt the finale will give fans closure, he says, "Yes, I hope. I can't tell."

"When I read it, I thought it was rather brilliant," he adds. "I am a bit of a fan of the series as well, and it satiated my expectation and hopes…But we will just have to see. You know, with something this big like Game of Thrones, you cannot please everyone."

As for the final season, due to premiere in 2019, Glen teases, "All I can say is that we will be doing what we have done before, and the writers have written great episodes. They have had a great strike rate up to now, and I am sure that will continue."

In the past season, Glen's character Ser Jorah, Daenerys' trusted advisor, was cured of the dreaded greyscale disease by Sam, and was reunited with Daenerys, who welcomed him with open arms. He then traveled beyond the Wall with Jon Snow to capture a wight, in order to prove their existence to Cersei.

Fathom Events/AMC Networks(NEW YORK) -- The Walking Dead is coming to the big screen for one night only.

Fathom Events and AMC have announced they’ll be releasing The Walking Dead season eight finale and the Fear the Walking Dead season four premiere in a back-to-back showing in select theaters April 15.

The episodes serve as a crossover for Walking Dead character Morgan Jones, played by Lennie James. The event, dubbed Survival Sunday, will also feature exclusive bonus content.

“Sunday, April 15 marks an epic and highly-anticipated moment for these series, as worlds collide when Morgan crosses over from The Walking Dead and into the new world of Fear,” Theresa Beyer, SVP of Brand Activation for AMC, says in a statement.

Beyer adds, “We are thrilled to be working with our terrific partners at Fathom to provide fans from across the country the opportunity to experience this crossover moment in such a special way and among other members of one of television’s most passionate fan communities.”

The showings will play at 750 theaters beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased at Fathom Events starting March 16.

Fathom Events/AMC Networks(NEW YORK) -- The Walking Dead is coming to the big screen for one night only.

Fathom Events and AMC have announced they’ll be releasing The Walking Dead season eight finale and the Fear the Walking Dead season four premiere in a back-to-back showing in select theaters April 15.

The episodes serve as a crossover for Walking Dead character Morgan Jones, played by Lennie James. The event, dubbed Survival Sunday, will also feature exclusive bonus content.

“Sunday, April 15 marks an epic and highly-anticipated moment for these series, as worlds collide when Morgan crosses over from The Walking Dead and into the new world of Fear,” Theresa Beyer, SVP of Brand Activation for AMC, says in a statement.

Beyer adds, “We are thrilled to be working with our terrific partners at Fathom to provide fans from across the country the opportunity to experience this crossover moment in such a special way and among other members of one of television’s most passionate fan communities.”

The showings will play at 750 theaters beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased at Fathom Events starting March 16.

According to Tina Fey, who wrote the original screenplay for the Lindsay Lohan-starring 2004 film, she was motivated to bring the movie from screen to stage after seeing stage versions start to pop up on college campuses.

“I started seeing like, college guys writing their version of it -- illegally -- and I was like, 'Oh heck no!'” Fey tells ABC Radio. “I was like, 'I’ve done too many different drafts of this screenplay for some junior boy in college to write this.'”

She went to producer Lorne Michaels and Paramount with the idea and they gave her the OK. Thus, Mean Girls on Broadway was born. This version is slightly updated for today’s audience – namely, it incorporates social media where the original film didn’t.

“It is part of the universe,” Fey says. But, she adds, “The show really is not about social media; it’s about human beings and what we do to each other.”

As for what she hopes audiences will take away from the show, Fey says she wants them to have a “fantastically entertaining night at the theater” and to have “a positive feeling on the way out.”

“I think the show provides a lot of laughs and a lot of great music and a lot of incredible performances from these young people singing their faces off, dancing their faces off,” Fey says.

According to Tina Fey, who wrote the original screenplay for the Lindsay Lohan-starring 2004 film, she was motivated to bring the movie from screen to stage after seeing stage versions start to pop up on college campuses.

“I started seeing like, college guys writing their version of it -- illegally -- and I was like, 'Oh heck no!'” Fey tells ABC Radio. “I was like, 'I’ve done too many different drafts of this screenplay for some junior boy in college to write this.'”

She went to producer Lorne Michaels and Paramount with the idea and they gave her the OK. Thus, Mean Girls on Broadway was born. This version is slightly updated for today’s audience – namely, it incorporates social media where the original film didn’t.

“It is part of the universe,” Fey says. But, she adds, “The show really is not about social media; it’s about human beings and what we do to each other.”

As for what she hopes audiences will take away from the show, Fey says she wants them to have a “fantastically entertaining night at the theater” and to have “a positive feeling on the way out.”

“I think the show provides a lot of laughs and a lot of great music and a lot of incredible performances from these young people singing their faces off, dancing their faces off,” Fey says.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- It seems the next James Bond movie has found its director.

Oscar-winnerDanny Boyle confirms to Metro that he’s planning to helm the 25th installment of the franchise.

“We are working on a script right now. And it all depends on that really,” he says. “I am working on a Richard Curtis script at the moment. We hope to start shooting that in six or seven weeks. Then Bond would be right at the end of the year. But we are working on them both right now.”

Boyle reveals that John Hodge, who previously worked with him on Trainspotting and several other films, is writing the Bond script.

“We’ve got an idea, John Hodge, the screenwriter, and I have got this idea, and John is writing it at the moment,” he says. “And it all depends on how it turns out. It would be foolish of me to give any of it away.”

Bond 25, as it’s being called, is currently set for a November 8, 2019 release date.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- It seems the next James Bond movie has found its director.

Oscar-winnerDanny Boyle confirms to Metro that he’s planning to helm the 25th installment of the franchise.

“We are working on a script right now. And it all depends on that really,” he says. “I am working on a Richard Curtis script at the moment. We hope to start shooting that in six or seven weeks. Then Bond would be right at the end of the year. But we are working on them both right now.”

Boyle reveals that John Hodge, who previously worked with him on Trainspotting and several other films, is writing the Bond script.

“We’ve got an idea, John Hodge, the screenwriter, and I have got this idea, and John is writing it at the moment,” he says. “And it all depends on how it turns out. It would be foolish of me to give any of it away.”

Bond 25, as it’s being called, is currently set for a November 8, 2019 release date.